The surface of Malastare was heavily forested,[1] and its core was home to large reserves of fuel.[4] As a result, the nativeDugs cleared large portions of land, constructing refineries to extract the fuel vital to its economy.[4]Podracing was a popular sport on Malastare.[10]

"That thing, it is a Zillo Beast. They once roamed Malastare, devouring our ancestors. When the Dugs first started harvesting the fuel in the planet's core, they were killed off. They are supposed to be extinct. Apparently, they're not."

In ancient times, Malastare was plagued by Zillo Beasts, who feasted on the native Dugs population. The creatures were driven to near extinction when it was discovered by the Dugs that Malastarian fuel was toxic to them. However, it was prophesied that one would eventually return, and bring an end to Dug civilization. In order to prepare their descendants, a manuscript detailing the Zillo Beasts was passed down through future generations.[4]

While the Dug Council gathered to decide on whether on not to sign a treaty with the Republic allowing them access to Malastare's fuel reserves, a rescue team led by Jedi MasterMace Windu descended into the sinkhole to rescue Republic troopers, finding several survivors. However, they found that the bomb had awoken the last surviving Zillo Beast, and barely escaped with their lives. Doge Urus demanded Republic assistance in eliminating the creature, threatening to cancel the treaty if they didn't. Windu declined due to the fact it was innocent and the last of its kind. The Supreme Chancellor and DoctorSionver Boll expressed interest in examining the lightsaber-resistant plates of the Zillo Beast, believing that they could be used to improve armor for the clone army.[4]

Discovering unprotected gaps between its plates, the Republic utilized RX-200 Falchion-class assault tanks to sedate the creature, leading the Dugs to believe it to be dead. Despite plans to relocate it somewhere in the Outer Rim, Palpatine ordered it to be taken to Coruscant, so it could be studied in a controlled environment. The Malastarian council signed the treaty, granting the Republic access to vital fuel reserves.[4]

The internal affairs of Malastare were controlled by the Dug Council, who ruled from the Imperial palace. The council had five members, and was led by the Doge. The council was able to ratify treaties. During the Clone Wars, it was led by Doge Nakha Urus.[4]

In the Galactic Senate however, the interest of Malastare were solely represented by the Grans.[1] During the Trade Federation Invasion of Naboo, it was represented by senator Ainlee Teem.[10]